Contingency Perspectives of Organizational Strategy: A Critical Review of the Empirical Research

Abstract

A two-level scheme for reviewing contingency theory research on organizational strategy is proposed. This scheme employs a systems model for delineating the domain of contingency perspectives on strategy research at the first level and incorporates relevant analytical dimensions at the second level. Patterns observed reinforce criticisms of contingency theory research in other macro-organizational areas. Recommendations pertaining to both theoretical and methodological issues are offered to strategy researchers conducting contingency theory-based empirical investigations.